Agricultural producer prices in Germany experienced a notable downturn in October 2025, signaling potential strain on the sector and raising questions about the government’s agricultural policy. According to data released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), prices declined by 1.7% compared to the previous month and by 2.8% when comparing October 2025 to September 2025. This follows a period of price stability, with increases of 2.2% recorded in both September and August compared to their respective prior-year periods.
The divergence between plant-based and animal-derived products continues to widen. While prices for agricultural crops tumbled by a significant 10.3% year-on-year, those for livestock and animal products rose by 3.3%. This contrasting trend highlights a complex dynamic impacting the industry, potentially reflecting shifts in consumer demand, international trade and feed costs. The month-over-month declines also impacted both categories, with plant-based products decreasing by 0.6% and animal products by 3.9%.
The sharp decline in plant-based product prices is largely attributable to a precipitous drop in potato prices, which were 41.8% lower than in October 2024. While the rate of annual decline has eased slightly from -44.0% in September and -52.5% in August, the ongoing volatility in potato prices demands further scrutiny regarding factors such as climate impacts on yields and market speculation. Other vegetables, including cabbage, cucumbers and iceberg lettuce, also saw considerable price decreases, reflecting a broader trend in crop pricing. Conversely, mushroom prices bucked the trend, experiencing a 11.2% increase.
Fruit prices recorded a decrease of 12.2% annually, with notable reductions in the price of table apples. Grain prices are also significantly lower, down 14.0% compared to October 2024 and overall “trade crops” are down 2.2%, with rapeseed falling by 4.1%. The decline in prices for feed crops, decreasing by 6.6% annually, could be linked to reduced demand as livestock farmers adapt to changing market conditions and input costs. Wine saw a slight price increase, offering a small pocket of stability within the declining agricultural price landscape.
The increase in livestock prices, particularly driven by a staggering 36.9% rise in cattle prices, is a critical area of concern. This increase highlights potential challenges for consumers and raises questions regarding the sustainability of current production models and the efficacy of government support mechanisms. While slaughter pig prices declined by 11.4%, poultry prices rose overall, spurred by significant increases in “other poultry” (ducks and turkeys) and chicken. Finally, milk prices, after several months of stability, experienced a 1.1% decrease compared to the previous year – the first decline observed since April 2024. The 4.7% decrease month-over-month underlines a weakening in dairy market demand.
The data underscores a need for a thorough review of agricultural policy, particularly in relation to supporting farmers facing price volatility, promoting sustainable farming practices and ensuring food security for the German population.